Abstract : Ribavirin a broad spectrum antiviral compound shows promise in vitro and in vivo against many viral diseases. The specific aim of this project was to synthesize a polymeric drug conjugate of ribavirin to provide time-release doses with enhanced endocytosis. A practical and standard approach was planned to couple ribavirin with carboxy-dextran (MW 46,000) by protecting 2', 3'-hydroxyl groups of ribavirin and then coupling ribavirin with polymer via an ester linkage to the 5'-hydroxyl group. This report describes successful synthesis and characterization of 2' 3'-isopropylidine ribavirin and carboxy-dextran. Conjugation of ribavirin to polymer may provide enhanced solubility and sustained release of drug. Further, a recommendation is also made in this report to achieve successful synthesis of conjugates.